Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta has praised striker Viktor Gyökeres as a game-changer for the club, saying his contributions have made the Gunners a “much better team” after his impressive brace in their 4-0 victory over Atlético Madrid.
Signed for around £64 million from Sporting CP, Gyökeres had faced criticism for failing to score in his first seven appearances for Arsenal. But he silenced doubters with a two-goal haul against Atletico, ending the drought and reaffirming his value to the team.
Arteta’s praise was emphatic: “He makes us a much better team. I think we’ve become much more unpredictable. He’s so physical, opens the spaces for everyone. The way he presses the ball, holds the ball, that’s phenomenal.”
Physical presence: Gyökeres’ strength in hold-up play forces centre-backs into deeper positions, creating space for wingers and midfield runners.
Off-ball movement: His runs behind the defence stretch opposing lines and shift defensive focus, allowing teammates to exploit gaps.
Defensive press: According to Arteta, Gyökeres’ energy in pressing the ball contributes to Arsenal’s overall shape and defensive stability.
Arteta believes Gyökeres’ impact goes beyond goals: the team’s attacking variation has improved, and Arsenal are now harder to predict. With this added dimension, the Gunners appear more equipped to compete both domestically and in Europe.
Though Gyökeres’ scoring is still getting up to speed, Arteta has reiterated his faith in the Swede’s ability and mindset. The breakthrough performance could mark the start of a more prolific phase for him at the Emirates.
In short: Arsenal have added a forward who doesn’t just finish chances—he creates them too. And in doing so, he may be transforming the team’s attacking blueprint.
